Guenons - General Characteristics, Breeding, Habitat, Activity, Guenon Relatives, In Captivity
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Guenons are small to medium-sized monkeys widespread throughout sub-Saharan Africa. These primates are classified in the infraorder of Old World simian primates (Cataffhina) and the family Cercopithecidae. Their genus, Cercopithecus, is large, very diverse, and successful.
The Cercopithecidae family consists of two subfamilies: the omnivorous Cercopithecinae (including guenons, talapoin, and baboons from Africa) and the vegetarian Colobinae. There are approximately 14 species of monkeys in the genus Cercopithecus and a total of over 70 subspecies. These species are: the grass monkey, L'Hoest's monkey, the diademed guenon, the diana monkey, De-Brazza's monkey, the mona monkey, the crowned guenon, the lesser white-nosed guenon, the red-bellied guenon, the greater white-nosed guenon, the mustached guenon, the owl-faced guenon, the dwarf guenon, and the swamp guenon. The red guenon has been classified in another genus altogether, Erythrocebus.
Additional Topics
While guenons vary greatly in coloring and facial characteristics, there are certain characteristics that they have in common. Generally, the guenon is a medium to large monkey, slender in build, measuring (head and body) 13-27.5 in (32.5-70 cm). Its tail is considerably longer than its body, ranging in length from 19.5-34 in (50-87.5 cm). Guenons are most active during the day, can be either terr…
While some guenons stray into the temperate climates found in southern Africa or high altitudes, they mostly thrive in tropical conditions. To survive, these monkeys need a temperature of at least 70°F (21°C). They are most comfortable when the temperature is between 75–85°F (24–29°C). Guenons live primarily in the tropical rainforest belt in Africa to the…
The genus Cercopithecus has three offshoots that have adapted to other environmental conditions and evolved morphological traits that distinguish them from other guenons. Consequently, some scientists have assigned them separate generic status. The first of these relatives, is the dwarf guenon. Known formally as Cercopithecus talapoin, the dwarf monkey has been classified by some scientists in a s…
Often referred to as "organ grinder's" monkeys," young guenons make gentle, trusting pets. If treated well, they usually have pleasing dispositions and like attention. However, as they mature or if they are mistreated, they are large enough to become a threat. The dispositions of adult guenons can be unpredictable, sometimes bordering on aggressive. The males can inflic…
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